Pretentious – definition: assuming an air of great dignity or importance : pompous

As writers we strive to create believable and memorable characters. One way to do this is to study characters in movies or on TV that resonate. I found this great list of pompous characters, all of whom are well liked in their media situations but would certainly be difficult to actually live with in the ‘real’ world. Each of these characters have clearly defined personality traits, which make them well rounded personalities.

There are many methods that, as writers, we can use to form a character. One of the most common is a ‘character biography’ or ‘profile’. I have inserted a couple but you can always formulate your own. We can also utilize personality traits from people we know or even celebrities. A good deal of the information and back story we put into our character’s profile will never get onto the page but with our knowledge of them ensures our character reacts to the situations we put them into, in a ‘realistic’ way.

Insurrection – definition: an act or instance of rising in revolt, rebellion, or resistance against civil authority or an established government

In my novel, Life in Slake Patch, the ruling government is a matriarchy borne of necessity after a Grand War. Generations have lived without questioning the separated male and female compounds until my protagonist, Evan’s twenty second year. A group of younger men, calling themselves the Tribe separate themselves from the normal routine. Creating a camp away from the compounds and surviving as best they can.

Conflict ensues between the establishment and the Tribe. Evan is enrolled to bring the Tribe members to justice but several unfortunate events and Evan’s own emotional struggle lead him to question their way of life.

He comes to understand how unfair it is after taking a bride and being unable to visit his lover, apart from once a week. And then only when the weather permits in the harsh winter months. He cannot be seen to side with the Tribe members but also wants to bring about change.

In interviews with the Tribe leader, Aiden, Evan realizes he and his followers are not so dissimilar from the other males. They want to be free to live with their chosen partners and children every day. To be a constant presence not an occasional one. Evan must find a way to balance the requirements of the ruling council with that of the younger members of the society.